Many people suffer from sciatica, a mild to incapacitating pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. Sciatica often results from pressure on the sciatic nerve, which can occur when this large nerve gets pinched or irritated somehow. There are many different causes of sciatica, but typically it’s the result of some injury or compression to the lower back.
Sciatica can be a severe and disabling condition, but several treatments can help relieve the pain. For this reason, you need to seek treatment from a Holmdel sciatica treatment specialist. We look at some treatment options in this article. Read more below.
- Medication
If your sciatica is mild, you may be able to relieve the pain with medication. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a standard treatment for sciatica, as they help to reduce inflammation and pain. Other medications that may help include muscle relaxants and acetaminophen.
- Physical Therapy
If the pain is severe, you may need to seek therapy. Physical therapy can help relieve the symptoms of sciatica. Therapists can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the lower back, which can help reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. Massage therapy may also be beneficial in some cases.
- Surgery
If the pain is awful, surgery may be an option. Surgery can help to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce inflammation. It’s crucial that you only pursue surgery as a last resort because many alternatives are available for sciatica treatment. One exception will be if the pain has caused permanent nerve damage, in which case surgery may be the only option.
- Diet
What you eat can also play a role in how bad your sciatica is. A poor diet can lead to inflammation and pain, so it’s essential to eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation, so try some fish or fish oil in your diet.
- Lifestyle Changes
Quitting smoking and avoiding sitting for long periods can also help manage sciatica. If you make these changes and seek treatment, you may find that your symptoms improve substantially. Additionally, you need to consult your doctor regarding the use of any medication you take for sciatica.
- Trigger Point Injections
If you have severe sciatica, your doctor may recommend trigger point injections. These shots of anesthetic or steroids are injected directly into the area where the sciatic nerve has become inflamed. Trigger point injections can be beneficial in reducing pain and inflammation when performed correctly.
- Alternative Treatments
Several alternative treatments may help treat sciatica. Acupuncture and yoga can relieve the pain, and chiropractic care is remarkably effective for alleviating sciatica symptoms. Ensure that you find a chiropractor who has experience working with patients who suffer from sciatica.
In summary, sciatica is a mild to incapacitating pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs resulting from pressure on the sciatic nerve. Treatment for sciatica includes medications, physical therapy, alternative therapies, and trigger point injections. Your doctor may also recommend surgery and lifestyle and diet changes.
